An exciting Business Partnerships Platform (BPP) partnership between Australian Agribusiness Four Seasons (4S), the University of Sydney and the Australian Government has led to a new carbon credit start-up with benefits for both smallholder farmers and the environment. The new business AgCoTechhas been set-up by 4S to distributes medicated livestock feed blocks in return for carbon offset credits. The establishment of the new enterprise demonstrates the value of cross sector partnerships to test, adapt and innovate inclusive business models.

An inclusive business improving the health of cows and buffalo

The BPP partnership in Laos was focused on improving the health of cows and buffalo. Internal parasites are a significant problem causing poor livestock health, low productivity and even death. Farmers currently have limited access to nutritional supplement products. With improved treatment and vaccinations, livestock health improves, and internal parasite control leads to higher meat yields. As farmers rely heavily on their animals for income and economic security, medication treatment is essential.

To improve livestock health, the BPP partnership established an inclusive business model where medicated feed blocks (Medicated Urea Molasses Blocks) were sold to farmers to improve animal health in a sustainable way. Medicated feed blocks for buffalo and cows reduce disease caused by internal parasites, improve the nutritional value of commonly used feeds and help the livestock to metabolise feed resulting in healthier animals and reduced methane. Healthier and more productive animals offer increased income earning opportunities for farmers, creating lasting social impact.